Community Initiatives

Community Advisory Board & Community Oversight Committee
Community members providing guidance on program priorities, study design, accountability, ethical engagement, alignment with community needs, & outreach strategies.

Community Partners
Healthcare organizations, advocacy groups, and community-based organizations collaborating on education, outreach, and research implementation.

Community Outreach and Education
Educational events, conferences, symposiums, workshops, and initiatives designed to increase awareness of stroke prevention and brain health while fostering trust and sustained community engagement.

Community Engagement
BEACON Initiative – Brain Health Education, Access, and Community Outreach Network

• Advancing Brain Health Through Education and Navigation
  BEACON improves brain health by providing community-based education, resources, and navigation services that help individuals and families better understand, prevent, and manage neurological conditions.
• Expanding Access to Research and Innovation
  BEACON promotes participation in clinical research by partnering with trusted community organizations and advisory boards to reduce barriers, increase representation, and ensure that research is culturally relevant and accessible to diverse populations.
• Building Community Through Brain Cafés and Workshops
  BEACON’s signature Brain Cafés bring together survivors, caregivers, healthcare professionals, researchers, and community members in welcoming, interactive settings. These educational events focus on topics such as stroke prevention, memory and cognitive health, healthy aging, and advances in neurological care. Participants can engage directly with experts, receive health screenings and educational resources, learn practical strategies for maintaining brain health, and build supportive connections that promote long-term wellness and recovery.

Find out more: Email [email protected] for more information or to sign up to receive beacon updates and newsletters.

Other Collaborations
CONNECT Consortium – Collaboration to Improve Outcomes, Preventive Care, and Care Transitions After Stroke

• The CONNECT Stroke Consortium is a national, multidisciplinary collaborative dedicated to improving the lives of stroke survivors and their families. Founded by Dr. Sharrief at UTHealth, CONNECT brings together patients, caregivers, clinicians, researchers, community organizations, and healthcare systems to advance evidence-based strategies for stroke prevention, recovery, care transitions, and long-term wellness. Through research, education, advocacy, and community engagement, CONNECT works to identify gaps in care, amplify the voices of people with lived experience, and develop innovative solutions that improve outcomes and quality of life after stroke.

Find out more: Visit the CONNECT (external link) website to learn about upcoming educational programs, research initiatives, community partnerships, and opportunities to get involved.